BMW is set to redefine the future of its electric vehicle (EV) lineup with the bold introduction of the Neue Klasse, a design language that promises to reshape the company’s offerings.
With six upcoming models already planned, the concepts presented so far showcase BMW’s ambitious vision.
However, none capture the imagination quite like the reimagined Neue Klasse Touring, brought to life by Sugar Design. This reinterpretation of the Neue Klasse sedan as a station wagon blends modern innovation with nostalgic cues, creating a truly captivating design.
A bold return to E30 roots
Sugar Design’s reimagined Neue Klasse Touring pays homage to the iconic BMW E30 estate while embracing a futuristic aesthetic. The designer had previously teased fans with a rear-only rendering, but now a full gallery of this conceptual estate has been released.
These new images depict a 3-Series-sized station wagon that effortlessly channels the spirit of BMW’s much-loved E30 Touring from the 1980s. The design draws heavily on vintage styling cues, but with modern tweaks that make it feel relevant in today’s world of electric vehicles.
The car is available in two striking versions – one silver and one red. The silver model takes a retro turn by replacing the sedan’s angled LED daytime running lights (DRLs) with classic 'angel eyes', a feature once synonymous with BMW’s design.
While no longer mainstream in recent models, these iconic headlights fit seamlessly into the wagon’s overall aesthetic. On the other hand, the red car retains the original DRLs seen in the Neue Klasse sedan concept, giving it a more futuristic vibe.
Subtle yet striking modifications
Beyond the headlights, several design elements have been subtly reworked to ensure the estate remains cohesive.
Sugar Design has adjusted the height of the side windows, ensuring the base aligns perfectly with the shoulder line for a cleaner profile. Black rocker panels, newly designed wheels and large panoramic glass roofs further enhance the vehicle’s appeal.
While the red car opts for sleek rear-facing cameras in place of traditional mirrors, the silver model maintains regular wing mirrors, appealing to those who prefer a more conventional setup.
These changes create a station wagon that’s modern and fresh, yet grounded in nostalgia. The Touring’s overall design is likely to resonate with fans who fondly remember the E30 era but are ready for a car that leads BMW into its electric future.
A design departure for BMW
BMW has been known to take risks with its recent designs, some of which have divided opinion. The Neue Klasse Touring by Sugar Design offers a refreshing change of direction, balancing retro and contemporary elements in a way that feels both exciting and refined.
While it remains a concept for now, the possibility of a production model like this gives hope that BMW's future EV lineup could include something truly spectacular.
In a world where SUV sales dominate, a well-executed electric estate like this would undoubtedly stand out. Sugar Design’s rendition of the Neue Klasse Touring taps into the desire for a vehicle that blends the best of BMW’s past with the promise of an electrifying future.